3 Common Problems IT Managers Face

problems IT managers faceBeing in any management role is stressful. 

And working as an IT manager comes with its own set of problems and stress. 

Instead of managing IT solutions, you now have to manage the people who work with IT. And they have more personality quirks than a testy server rack. 

Before working at The KR Group, many of our leaders held management positions in other company’s IT departments. They can attest to the dedication and critical thinking it takes to do well in that role. 

When it comes to working in management, here are some of the most pressing problems IT managers face: 

  • Stress and pressure of the IT manager role
  • Weak departmental culture
  • Struggling to find time for job-specific tasks

When faced with these problems, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. However, as you’ll read, there are straightforward and practical solutions to each one.

 

Problem: Stress & Pressure of the IT Manager Role

Being an IT manager comes with inevitable stress. The weight of your organization is on your shoulders, and if something goes wrong, you’ll take the brunt of the blame. 

On top of it, you might feel pressure from the executive team on what should be done, and it might not align with the direction you believe the department should go in.

 

Solution: Remember Your Value

It can be challenging to remember in the moment, but try to recall the positive qualities you bring to your company. You were hired for a reason and have the qualifications to navigate the stress and pressure that comes with the job. 

When there is a conflict (internal or external), try to look at it from a logical standpoint, own up to your mistakes if you need to, and move on as best you can.

 

Problem: Weak Departmental Culture

Speaking of stress, 73% of IT professionals cite an uneasy workplace as a major source of frustration in their job. An even more dauntingproblems IT managers face statistic is 47% of job seekers are looking to change jobs because of company culture concerns. 

Weak culture can show up in a few different ways: 

  • A high turnover rate
  • Unhealthy competition among employees
  • Your employees are working through lunch breaks
  • Your employees often call in or are late for work

In IT specifically, it’s easy for employees to feel alone and siloed in their niche of technology, which often tanks motivation.

 

Solution: Be a Culture Champion

As an IT manager, you’re responsible for setting the tone for how your IT department functions. 

To create a positive atmosphere, start publicly recognizing when someone in your department goes above and beyond. Also, take time outside of work duties to get to know and encourage employees. Have everyone take a break from thinking about IT and treat the department to lunch.

If you’re looking to take an extra step toward invigorating positive company culture, schedule a get-together outside of working hours to get to know the less professional version of your employees. 

Finally, if you are concerned about specific employees, don’t be afraid to take it to HR if you need backup. It’s best to nip these concerns in the bud because having one problem-causing person in your department can quickly affect everyone else.

 

Problem: Struggling to Find Time for IT Manager Tasks

As an IT manager, you have to manage your employees and keep them accountable without micromanaging.

Even with a small department, it’s easy to lose time helping your employees and let your daily tasks go to the wayside. 

For your IT department to function well, everyone needs to do their job, including you.

 

Solution: Utilize Scheduling Features

 problems IT managers faceIt seems obvious, but it’s critical.

One of the most efficient ways to manage your time to ensure you get to the IT manager duties is to block out time on your schedule. 

Being there for employees is important, but it’s ok to block out a few hours once or twice a week where you can work uninterrupted. 

The goal is to have departmental effectiveness, which includes you.

 

Be a Less Stressed IT Manager

You could be an extremely effective IT manager, but if you’re consistently struggling to solve problems associated with the job, you’ll burn out eventually. 

At some point, you have to face the problems that come with the job, which frequently include stress and pressure, culture, and time management. 

Taking a step back, evaluating the problem, and considering its corresponding solution can help you tackle the issue and improve as an IT manager. 

For additional support navigating the role of IT manager, download our free priority checklist. It gives you a place to organize all the tasks you need to complete now, soon, and in the future.

Leave a Comment

WE'RE SERIOUS ABOUT YOUR EDUCATION!

Want the articles from our Learning Center delivered to your inbox? Stay up to date with the latest on cybersecurity, collaboration, data center, managed services, and more.

Scroll to Top